Ng’eno Reaffirms Government Push for Stronger Climate Action and Environmental Governance

The State Department for Environment and Climate Change has aligned its programmes with the Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA) to deliver practical solutions that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, restore ecosystems, and create opportunities for ordinary Kenyans.

Principal Secretary Dr. Eng. Festus K. Ng’eno made the remarks during a high-level virtual consultative meeting. He outlined key priorities guided by Executive Order No. 1 of June 2025, including improved environmental governance, wetland conservation and restoration, resource mobilisation for climate action, and enhanced research in climate and weather services.

“The Department has aligned its policies, programmes and projects with BETA, with a focus on delivering people-centred and sustainable solutions, including efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote sustainable waste management value chains,” Dr. Ng’eno said.

Alignment with National and Global Frameworks

Dr. Ng’eno noted that the department’s Strategic Plan for 2023–2027, performance contracts, and annual work plans remain synchronised with Kenya Vision 2030, the Sustainable Development Goals, and Africa Agenda 2063.

Progress has been recorded in environmental governance, waste management, wetland restoration, and modernisation of meteorological services. These efforts support livelihoods and open doors for young people through green jobs in restoration, waste value chains, and climate services.

Principal Secretary for Forestry Gitonga Mugambi highlighted the central role of the 15 billion tree-growing programme. He said success depends on strong partnerships with communities, the private sector, and county governments. Commercial forestry, he added, can generate jobs and stimulate economic growth through various value chains.

Acknowledging Challenges

Dr. Ng’eno acknowledged persistent hurdles, including limited resources, climate pressures, human resource gaps, and technological constraints. He called for a coordinated, whole-of-government approach to tackle these issues effectively.

The PS emphasised the need for inclusive, stakeholder-driven solutions in line with BETA. Collaboration across ministries, counties, and partners remains essential to advance Kenya’s environmental and climate priorities.

Focus on Restoration and Livelihoods

Wetland restoration and sustainable waste management continue to receive attention as they directly benefit local communities. Modernising weather and climate services helps farmers and other sectors make informed decisions amid changing weather patterns.

The 15 billion tree programme, a flagship initiative, aims to raise national forest cover significantly by 2032. Officials say community involvement and private sector participation will be critical for higher survival rates and long-term impact.

The virtual meeting served as a platform to strengthen coordination and improve public service delivery in the environment and climate sector. Participants discussed ways to accelerate ongoing initiatives while addressing implementation gaps.

Dr. Ng’eno reiterated the State Department’s commitment to working with all stakeholders. He said sustained collaboration will help Kenya build resilience against climate change while supporting economic transformation from the bottom up.

As the country faces increasing climate variability, these efforts seek to protect ecosystems, create green jobs, and ensure sustainable development for current and future generations.